How to set up a Trading, Import & Export business in Bangladesh
We help traders, importers, exporters, distributors and e-commerce businesses with registrations, import and export permissions, letters of credit, customs matters and commercial contracts.
Simple to start, important to get right
Trading is one of the most common ways to start a business in Bangladesh. Local trading needs only basic registrations, but importing and exporting bring additional requirements from the import and export control authority, customs and banks.
Online sellers must also follow the government’s digital-commerce rules and consumer-protection law. Clear supply, distribution and agency contracts help traders avoid the payment and quality disputes that are common in the sector.
Key steps to get started
Choose a Structure
Sole proprietorship, partnership or company — depending on scale, risk and investors.
Basic Registrations
Trade licence, e-TIN and VAT/BIN registration, and a business bank account.
IRC / ERC
Import Registration Certificate and Export Registration Certificate as required.
Product Permissions
Check Import Policy restrictions and any product-specific approvals or certifications.
LCs & Customs
Open letters of credit through your bank and clear goods through customs.
Contracts & E-commerce
Supply and distribution agreements, and DBID registration for online sellers.
What you are likely to need
A trading business will commonly need:
- Trade licence
- e-TIN & VAT/BIN registration
- RJSC incorporation (for companies)
- Import Registration Certificate (IRC)
- Export Registration Certificate (ERC)
- Trade-body membership (chamber / association)
- Product-specific approvals (e.g. BSTI)
- Digital Business Identity (DBID) for e-commerce
Key laws & regulators
- Contract Act, 1872
- Sale of Goods Act, 1930
- Import and Export (Control) Act, 1950
- Import Policy Order & Export Policy
- Customs Act, 2023
- Value Added Tax and Supplementary Duty Act, 2012
- Consumer Rights Protection Act, 2009
- Competition Act, 2012
Your legal partner from day one
We advise on the right structure — company, branch, liaison office or joint venture.
We handle name clearance, RJSC incorporation and constitutional documents.
We obtain sector licences, registrations and regulatory approvals.
We support ongoing filings, contracts, employment and disputes.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a company to start trading?
No. You can trade as a sole proprietor or partnership, but a limited company gives limited liability and is usually preferred for larger or import-based businesses.
What is an IRC and do I need one?
The Import Registration Certificate is required to import goods commercially. Exporters need an Export Registration Certificate (ERC).
Are some products restricted from import?
Yes. The Import Policy Order lists banned and restricted items and conditions for others. We check your products before you place orders.
What rules apply to online selling?
E-commerce businesses must follow the digital-commerce guidelines, including registration, delivery and refund requirements, along with consumer-protection law.
Speak with our legal team
Tell us about your matter. A Premier Law Services lawyer will review it and advise you on the right next step — in person at our Dhaka chamber or online.